Helping create safer spaces
KNYSNA - The HRF Safer Spaces Camera Project will officially launch tomorrow, Friday 1 March. A collaboration between the HRF Neighbourhood Watch and Allsound Security, the project is paving the way to creating a safer space for the areas that fall under the watchful eyes of the HRF Neighbourhood Watch - Hunters Home, Rexford and Fisherhaven.
The neighbourhood volunteers have been funding the existing CCTV camera system since its inception seven years ago. "Thanks to these dedicated members, multiple street cameras were paid for and installed, and monitored by Allsound Security during agreed times," said director of Allsound Security Declan Nurse.
"These cameras have resulted in many successful arrests over the years and have been a great deterrent to would-be criminals.
“With a recent spate of break-ins, it became evident that additional cameras would be necessary to effectively detect intruders and to aid security role players in effective crime prevention methods."
Thus the Safer Spaces concept was born and one of its intentions is to include a broader base of residents in the area contributing towards the installation of additional cameras and improving on the existing network.
Recent months have highlighted the importance of working together. A number of joint initiatives between HRF volunteers, Allsound Security and members of Knysna Police resulted in the arrests of culprits who had been targeting the area since October 2023. According to Rob Jackson of the HRF, crime in the area has been reduced since their arrests.
At the recent HRF area coordinators meeting, the new Allsound Security areabased response vehicle branding was unveiled and the installation of the first phase of additional cameras was announced.
This collaboration is the start of creating a safer space together in Hunters Home, Rexford and Fisherhaven.